News Article
Published
Oct 14, 2026 at 03:02 PM EDT
The Minnesota Vikings are one of only three undefeated teams, but one NFL analyst isn't sold on the NFC North squad.
Despite their early success, NFL Network's Kyle Brandt predicted an immediate postseason elimination for the Vikings on Wednesday's "First Take."
"I think they're one and done in the playoffs," Brandt said.
The Vikings remain undefeated behind a stout Brian Flores-led defense allowing a league-low 12.8 points per game. However, they rank 29th in passing offense under new quarterback Kyler Murray.
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Brandt raised doubts about Murray, noting that the former No. 1 pick struggled in his only prior playoff action. Four years ago, Murray went 19-of-34 for 137 yards, no touchdowns, and two interceptions in a Wild Card Round loss to the Los Angeles Rams.
"There's a lot of people who are all in on the Vikings, who I think have short, selective memories about Kyler Murray," Brandt said. "... The fact is, he has never been a guy in the big time. Never. We've never seen it. We talked about this, Jordan [Rodgers]. One playoff game ever. I don't think he was on this planet for that playoff game. It was one of the strangest performances I have ever seen."
To believe in Murray, Brandt needs to see him bail out his teammates and lead Minnesota to a high-scoring win. Such a test could come soon, as the Vikings play the Indianapolis Colts, Detroit Lions, Buffalo Bills, Green Bay Packers, and San Francisco 49ers after their Week 6 bye.
"Just give me one week where he says, 'I got us. I'm the captain now. I'll get us 36 points and win 36-34.' I don't know if he has that gear in him," Brandt said. "And you're gonna get to the playoffs, and good for you. You went 12-5, or whatever they're gonna go. San Francisco is there. Dogs are there. Veterans are there. I don't know if Kyler Murray is that guy in a January playoff game who's like, 'I got us. We're down four with two minutes left? I got it.' I just don't think he's that guy, and I can't trust the team when he's not."